Freelancing has become common in Pakistan, especially in the last five years. I remember when I started my journey as a writer in Pakistan; very few people knew about this amazing online world. However, things have changed over time.
How to become a Freelance Writer in Pakistan
According to the Oxford Internet Internet Institute's Online Labor Index, Pakistan secured 4th place as the most popular country for freelancing. Now come to the main point of becoming a freelance writer in Pakistan; here is your ultimate guide.
1. Improve your English:
First thing first, you need to have perfect English to write. You must be able to communicate the intended message clearly to your audience. If you already have a native standard, just skip to the next part. If not, then work hard. You need to improve your language skills to become a writer.
2. Select a Niche:
You can not write on every topic. You need to choose the topics you like the best. A niche can be health, tech, spiritual, etc. Select something that you find interesting and that you have studied. Because it is important to understand what you are writing.
3. Start Writing Daily:
Don't wait for a job. When you have made up your mind, start writing immediately when you are satisfied with your language skills. You will know the time you need to write any piece of writing. Mostly, you are paid on a per word basis, so you must know your potential before getting your first job.
Furthermore, don't keep your words to yourself. There are many free platforms where you can publish your work. You can later use your blogs or articles to get a job.
Here are the few places where you can post something for free:
- Blogger
There are many other places as well, but as a beginner, select anyone and start writing.
4. Start Applying on Freelancing Websites:
When you have enough articles to show a client, you can make your account of freelancing websites.
You can make your accounts here:
- Upwork
- Fiverr
- Guru
I suggest you make an account on all and start applying. Once you get your first project then leave all other options and solely focus on that platform. This way, you can build a strong portfolio and gain an expert level on one website.
These websites have local and international clients. You are paid in dollars. However, there are also freelancers from all over the world. It is not always easy to get a job there. I applied for six months before I got my first project.
You can also start by joining local content writing groups on Facebook. There are many groups that freelancers use to outsource their work. They usually pay around rupees 1 to 5 depending on your experience.
A good freelancer who is outsourcing work can become your mentor as well. Just make sure to thoroughly search about your hirer because the world is full of good and bad people.
You can join any writing firm as well. Software houses in Pakistan are hiring on daily basis. Some may also offer a work-from-home opportunity and once or twice meetings a month. It depends on whichever suits you the best.
Pros of Freelancing in Pakistan
- Better pay scale than most Pakistani 9-5 jobs
- Ease of working from everywhere
- Workload is in your hands
- No worries about the daily commute
Cons of Freelancing in Pakistan
- Not easy to get the first job
- Lack of motivation after some time
- Work is not always available - there are no-work days
My Opinion
The freelancing world is very awesome when you are getting work on a regular basis. But it requires devotion. You need to wait a lot to get your first job; there will even be short or long gaps between two jobs. However, if you want to get the success you need to be patient and consistent.
Don't give up to early and with early, I mean at least 6-8 months. Try every day. What you have studied doesn't matter - only your words matter. Clients will only know how you can write by seeing your samples. Therefore, write as much as you can to show your talent. Best of luck!
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